Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a pale blue liquid which appears colorless in a dilute solution, and it's a powerful oxidizer. It's used for various purposes, including as an antiseptic and bleach.
This is a chemical reaction that involves the moving of electrons. In this case, hydrogen peroxide acts as an oxidizing agent to kill bacteria.
Antiseptic: A substance that prevents or stops growth of microorganisms. Hydrogen peroxide is often used as an antiseptic on minor cuts or burns to prevent infection.
Bleaching Agent: A substance that lightens or whitens another substance through oxidation. Hydrogen peroxide can act as a bleaching agent for hair and teeth.